Repetitive language is a common and meaningful part of communication for many autistic children.
What Can Repetition Mean?
A Way to Connect
Repetition might be your child’s way of starting a conversation or keeping it going. If making up new words or sentences is tricky, repeating something familiar can be a reliable way to engage with others and practice language.
Comfort and Calm
Repetition can help your child feel safe. In a busy or unpredictable world, hearing or saying the same words can be soothing. Sometimes your child already knows the answer—they just find comfort in asking the question again.
Sensory Joy
Some words may sound or feel nice to say. The rhythm or tone might bring pleasure or help your child feel more grounded—just like rocking or flapping hands can be calming for some kids.
Thinking and Learning
Repeating a phrase can help your child process what they’ve heard or seen. It may support memory, learning, and understanding—especially for kids who thrive on repetition and patterns.
Self-Expression
Your child may repeat lines from a favourite show, book, or topic they love. These “scripts” often reflect passions, feelings, or identity. They’re not just quotes—they’re part of your child’s unique way of sharing who they are.
Coping with Change
Repetition can help during transitions, like starting school or moving between activities. Asking the same question again might help your child feel secure when things around them are changing.
Sharing Something Important
Sometimes, a repeated question or phrase means your child is asking for something deeper—connection, reassurance, or help with emotions. It’s their way of saying, “I need you,” even if the words don’t change.
How can we help?
How Can I Respond?
Instead of trying to stop repetition, ask yourself:
- What need is this meeting?
- Is my child feeling anxious, excited, or uncertain?
- How can I support them in this moment?
Try these ideas:
- Answer patiently—even if you’ve answered before.
- Gently reflect the feeling: “You’ve asked that a few times—are you feeling worried?”
- Offer visual or written reminders, if helpful.
- Create routines that support comfort and predictability.
- Dig deeper into finding out what your child’s repetitive scripts/chunks are really meaning.